The Boy on Fairfield Street
How Ted Geisel Grew Up to Become Dr. Seuss
by Kathleeen Krull
Bibliography
Krull, K. (2004). The boy on Fairfield street how ted geisel grew up to become Dr.Seuss. New York: Random House. ISBN 0-375-82298-4
Summary
The story of Ted Geisel, more affectionately known as Dr. Seuss, and how the boy voted “most likely not to succeed” became one of the most famous children’s authors in history.
My Impression
I was drawn to this story of Ted Geisel’s life, as Dr. Suess has been an admired author of mine since childhood. In the beginning it seemed he had nearly the perfect life growing up; but it soon changed with the onset of World War I. It is hard to believe that someone so talented was bullied and discouraged by teachers. The story of Ted reminds us that we all have gifts to use and they are not always identified or appreciated by others.
Reviews
Born in 1904 to a mother who enjoyed reading and a father who worked at the zoo in Springfield, Massachusetts, Geisel spent his days doodling, hanging out with friends, and generally fooling around. Yet there were also some difficult moments. His German heritage made him a target for teasing at the advent of World War I; he was also a rule breaker and was told by his teacher that he would never get anywhere with his art. The book ends when Geisel, already a published cartoonist, is 22, living in Greenwich Village, and looking forward to a bright future. -- Ilene Cooper, Booklist
Growing up in Springfield, Mass., Ted Geisel "feasted on books and was wild about animals" and "excelled at fooling around." The informal, anecdotal narrative explains that Geisel early on demonstrated a passion for drawing (even on his bedroom walls) "whatever popped into his head." He took only one art class, in high school, and quit when the teacher scolded him for "breaking rules" and told him he would never be successful. While attending Dartmouth, Geisel was admired for his "talent for silliness" and, Krull notes with comic irony, "He was clearly gifted, though no one knew at exactly what…familiar Seuss characters frolic through these pages, thematically complementing the illustrations while reminding readers why Geisel's life is worth celebrating. --Publishers Weekly (2004).
Suggested Activities
Good book to use for Dr. Seuss celebration the week of his birthday (March 4th); Dr. Seuss book extension activities can be found at: http://www.atozteacherstuff.com/Themes/Dr__Seuss/
Great book to include in author study of Dr. Seuss or in general children’s authors study.
I recommend this book for springboard to discussions in perseverance, believing in yourself, and not taking hurtful comments of others to heart.
